Drivers using the State Route 520 floating bridge should allow extra time to cross Lake Washington due to a drawspan opening planned for 12:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19.

A delay of up to 30 minutes is possible while Washington State Department of Transportation bridge crews close the highway and open the drawspan to allow a 58-foot-tall sailboat to pass through.

Vessels smaller than 45 feet tall can fit under the west highrise of the floating bridge. The east highrise channel used to provide clearance for boats up to 64 feet tall, however it is closed for construction of the new SR 520 bridge except during designated events and holidays. Under new Coast Guard rules, boats taller than 45 feet may request a drawspan opening 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays.

Electronic message signs on highways leading to the bridge will advise drivers of the drawspan opening. Drivers can choose alternate routes to get around Lake Washington, including Interstates 90 and 405 and State Route 522.